Raphinha, Bernal, and De Jong at Suspension Risk Before El Clasico

Raphinha, Bernal, and De Jong at Suspension Risk Before El Clasico | Blaugrana News

All three have recovered from injuries and are included in the squad for the Osasuna match but risk missing the season's biggest game due to yellow cards

BlaugranaNews EditorialMay 02, 20261 min read

So what

Barcelona must carefully manage Raphinha, Bernal, and De Jong's playing time against Osasuna to avoid suspensions before El Clasico. Fans should expect cautious squad rotation to keep key players available for the decisive clash.

Raphinha, Marc Bernal, and Frenkie de Jong have been medically cleared and named in Barcelona's squad for the upcoming La Liga away game against Osasuna, marking a significant return after injury layoffs. Their readiness boosts Barcelona’s strength in the title race and signals the return of key leaders previously sidelined for crucial matches.

However, all three players are just one yellow card away from suspension, which risks them missing the approaching El Clasico against Real Madrid. According to BlaugranaNews, the coaching staff must carefully control their pitch time and workload to prevent suspensions or further injuries.

Firstly, Raphinha and Bernal’s return provides tactical flexibility in midfield and attack, expanding rotation options amid a packed schedule. Secondly, the need to cautiously manage players at risk of missing the key fixture forces coach Hans Flick to balance the pursuit of immediate results with preparation for the season's most important derby.

For fans, this situation means the lineup for El Clasico depends heavily on the fitness and discipline of these players. Overusing them in the Osasuna match could lead to losing vital contributors for the showdown against Madrid, complicating Barcelona's championship plans and affecting tactics.